Ina Garten Jam Thumbprint Cookies

Ina Garten’s Jam Thumbprint Cookies are a classic treat that brings together buttery, crumbly shortbread and sweet fruit jam in every bite. Lightly rolled in coconut for extra texture and flavor, these cookies are beautiful enough for holidays, tea parties, or just a special homemade snack.

With simple ingredients and a foolproof method, this Barefoot Contessa favorite delivers a perfect balance of sweetness, richness, and texture.

What Are Ina Garten’s Jam Thumbprint Cookies?

Jam Thumbprint Cookies feature a rich, buttery cookie dough that’s shaped into small rounds, pressed to create a “thumbprint” well, and filled with fruity jam before baking. Ina Garten’s version adds a coconut coating that becomes golden and toasty during baking, creating a delightful contrast with the tender cookie.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Spatchcock Chicken
• Ina Garten Baked Fontina Cheese
• Ina Garten Risotto Cakes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Jam Thumbprint Cookies

• Simple yet elegant – Perfect for gifts or celebrations
• Customizable fillings – Use your favorite jams or preserves
• Delightfully buttery and tender – Classic shortbread flavor
• Pretty and festive – Ideal for holiday cookie trays
• Great for baking with kids – Fun to shape and fill
• Make-ahead friendly – Dough can be prepared in advance
• Crowd-pleasing – Loved by kids and adults alike

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Jam Thumbprint Cookies

• 3 sticks (12 ounces) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 3½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 extra-large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
• 7 ounces sweetened flaked coconut
• Raspberry jam, apricot jam, or your favorite fruit preserves

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Jam Thumbprint Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream the butter and sugar

In an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the butter and sugar on medium speed for 3–5 minutes, until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla and mix until combined.

Step 3: Add dry ingredients

Sift together the flour and salt. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix just until the dough comes together.

Step 4: Shape the cookies

Scoop dough into 1¼-inch balls. Dip each ball lightly into the beaten egg wash, then roll it in the flaked coconut.

Step 5: Create the thumbprints

Place the coconut-covered balls on prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart. Press your thumb gently into the center of each ball to make a well.

Step 6: Fill with jam

Spoon about ¼ teaspoon of jam into each indentation.

Step 7: Bake until golden

Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the coconut is golden and the cookies are set. Cool completely on wire racks.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Jam Thumbprint Cookies

• A cup of hot tea or coffee – Classic pairing
• Vanilla ice cream – Serve cookies alongside a scoop
• Whipped cream or clotted cream – Adds indulgence
• Fresh fruit – Strawberries or raspberries complement beautifully
• Gift baskets – Package with chocolates or other cookies
• Holiday platters – Adds color and variety
• Light sparkling wine – Great for festive occasions

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Jam Thumbprint Cookies

• Use room temperature butter – Ensures easy creaming
• Chill dough slightly if too soft – Helps cookies hold shape
• Use good-quality jam – Flavor matters in simple recipes
• Don’t overfill the centers – Jam can bubble over
• Roll evenly in coconut – For consistent toasting and flavor
• Space cookies well – They spread slightly when baking
• Cool completely before storing – Prevents sogginess

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Jam Thumbprint Cookies

• Mix different jams – Raspberry, apricot, strawberry, or lemon curd
• Skip the coconut – For a more traditional thumbprint cookie
• Dip edges in melted chocolate after baking – For extra decadence
• Use nut fillings like almond or pistachio butter – Unique twist
• Add orange or lemon zest to the dough – Brightens flavor
• Dust with powdered sugar after baking – For a festive finish
• Fill with Nutella or caramel – For an indulgent alternative

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten’s Jam Thumbprint Cookies

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature – Keeps for up to 5 days
• Layer with parchment if stacking – Prevents sticking
• Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months – Thaw at room temperature before serving
• Avoid humid storage areas – Coconut can absorb moisture and soften

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Jam Thumbprint Cookies

• Room temperature is best – No reheating necessary
• Crisp slightly in a 300°F oven for 3–4 minutes – If needed
• Avoid microwaving – Makes them soft and chewy instead of crisp
• Refresh with a dusting of powdered sugar after warming – For extra charm

Nutritional Value (per cookie, approx.)

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 45mg

A small, sweet treat with buttery richness and bright fruit flavor.

FAQs

Can Ina Garten’s jam thumbprint cookies be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough balls in advance and refrigerate them for up to 2 days before baking. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months.

What is the best jam to use for thumbprint cookies?

Good-quality raspberry, apricot, or strawberry jam works best. Choose thicker jams to avoid too much spreading during baking.

How do I prevent thumbprint cookies from cracking when pressing the center?

Press gently and evenly into the dough before baking. If the dough feels too firm, let it rest at room temperature for a few minutes to soften.

Do I have to roll Ina Garten’s thumbprint cookies in coconut?

No, rolling in coconut is optional. You can skip it for a more traditional version or replace it with finely chopped nuts if you prefer.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Jam Thumbprint Cookies are the perfect combination of tender cookie, toasty coconut, and sweet, fruity filling. They’re simple yet stunning, making them a must-bake for the holidays, afternoon tea, or any time you want to impress with minimal fuss. Once you try these homemade delights, store-bought cookies just won’t compare.

Print